Outdoor ice skating rink begins new season Nov. 11

The popular ICE at Santa Monica outdoor skating rink will return this month for its fifth season in downtown Santa Monica.

ICE at Santa Monica is a unique outdoor venue at Fifth Street and Arizona Avenue where skaters can enjoy the festive winter season in a picturesque setting under the stars, just blocks from the beach.

An opening celebration presented by Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. will begin at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 15. The event will be hosted by five-time gold medallist from the U.S. Figure Skating Championships Randy Gardner, and will feature special performances by Olympic gold medallist Tara Lipinksi, the California Gold Synchronized Skating Team, and duo skating teammates Ashleigh Cahn and Brandon Larcom.

Santa Monica Mayor Richard Bloom, Mayor Pro Tem Gleam Davis and Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. CEO Kathleen Rawson will officially mark the opening ceremony. The evening’s festivities will include a night of free skating until 10 p.m. to music from DJ Dlux, along with kids’ crafts and activities.

“We are excited to once again offer the residents and visitors of downtown Santa Monica the wonderful holiday experience of ICE at Santa Monica,” Rawson said. “Now in its fifth year, ICE at Santa Monica has become a beloved tradition for the community and has proven to be one of downtown Santa Monica’s most popular destinations for the whole family.”

A variety of weekly events will take place throughout the season, including Lil’ Tot Time, Two-for-One Tuesdays, Wacky Hat Wednesdays, Wednesday After-Hours Broom Ball, Thursday College Nights, and Friday Rock ‘N’ Skate. Los Angeles Kings free hockey clinics will return on Sunday mornings, and skate lessons are available on Saturday mornings.

ICE will be open to the public daily starting Friday, Nov. 11 and continuing through Jan. 16, every Monday through Thursday (2 to 10 p.m.), Friday (2 p.m. to midnight), Saturday (10 a.m. to midnight), and Sunday (10 a.m. to 10 p.m.). Holiday hours may vary.

Admission and skate rental is $12. Parking is available in city parking structures throughout downtown Santa Monica.